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Valsartan

Drug Class: Commonly Known As: Category:
Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers Diovan, Exforge, Exforge-HCT

Valsartan - What is it for

​Angiotensin II is a substance that causes the blood vessels to become narrower and this causes an increase in blood pressure. Valsartan lowers blood pressure by blocking the effects of a substance called Angiotensin II at the blood vessel walls. 

This medication can also be used for patients who have protein in their urine and other heart conditions.

Valsartan - Side Effects, Precautions, and Contraindications

What side effects can Valsartan cause?

​The side effects include dizziness and lightheadedness on getting up.

The symptoms of a drug allergy include one or more of the following: 

  • Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue
  • Difficulty in breathing
  • Itchy skin rashes over your whole body

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop your medicine immediately and see your doctor.

Very rarely, this medicine can injure or damage the liver. A liver injury may recover on its own. However in some cases, it can cause serious liver damage. Stop this medicine and see a doctor immediately if you notice dark coloured urine or light coloured stools, or if you experience nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach pain or yellowing of your eyes or skin. This side effect has a very low chance of occurring. Most patients take this medicine with no problems. Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you have any concerns regarding your medicines.

Before taking Valsartan , what precautions must I follow?

​Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to get pregnant. Once you find out you are pregnant, stop the medication as soon as possible. Taking this medication can cause injury and death to your developing fetus. 

Your doctor may need to monitor your potassium levels and kidney function when you are on this medication.  

What food or medicine must I avoid when I take Valsartan ?

Valsartan - Dosage and How to Use

How should Valsartan be used?

  • ​Do not stop taking your medicine without checking with your healthcare provider 
  • This medicine may be taken with or without food

What should I do if I miss a dose?

​If you miss a dose, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only the usual dose. Do not double your dose or use extra medicine to make up for the missed dose.

What should I do if I overdose?

If you take more than the recommended dose, please seek medical advice immediately.

Valsartan - Handling

How should I handle Valsartan safely?

Valsartan - Storage

How should I store Valsartan ?

;#Keep away from children;#Keep in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight;#

​Throw away all expired medicines.

How should I dispose of Valsartan safely?

Pack this medicine into a black trash bag and seal it tightly before throwing into the rubbish chute or bin. 

Valsartan - Additional Information

  • Updated on 5/8/2019 12:00:00 AM
  • Article contributed by PSS National Medication Information Workgroup PSS National Medication Information Workgroup
The information provided is not intended as medical advice. Terms of use. Information provided by SingHealth

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